MELBA MOORE
PUBLISHER
To n y Smit h
EDITORIN CHEIF
DR RHONDA FOSTER-SMITH
COLUMNISTS
Pau l et t e Jac kso n
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KEYANNA HARPER
PHOTOGRAPHY
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bu mpyjo n as
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Publisher'sNote
TonySmith
The Freedom We?re St ill Fight ing For
ByTonySmith, Publisher ?Indie Incognito Magazine
On The Cover
June isn? t just another page on the calendar It?s a reckoning A mirror A memory that won? t let us look away
Juneteenth marks the day when the last enslaved Black Americans finallylearned they were free ? two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation If that doesn? t tell you something about America?s relationship with truth, timing, and justice, you?re not paying attention.
But here?s the thing: Juneteenth isn? t just about 1865 It?s about now
Because we?re still fighting for freedom ? in classrooms, courtrooms, boardrooms, and voting booths Still fighting to be seen, heard, paid, protected, and remembered. Still fighting to define who we are, on our terms, without permission or apology.
This issue is our answer to that fight
Inside these pages, you?ll find stories that honor the past and demand a future Fashion rooted in resistance Music born from survival. Truth told without a filter. From culture to commerce, from community to creativity ? this issue is unapologetically Black, fiercely independent, and fully awake
We don? t do watered-down here. We don? t do neutral. We do bold. We do real We do Indie
To our ancestors: we see you
To our readers: we got you
To the system: we?re not asking We?re building
Happy Juneteenth Let?s keep it moving ? loud, proud, and unbought
? Tony Smith
Publisher, Indie Incognito
page
junt eent h2025
fr oml iber at iont ol egacy
by: Tony Smith
Int roduct ion
Once whispered in Southern Black communities and later celebrated in spirited block parties, Juneteenth has journeyed from grassroots remembrance to a federally recognized holiday As we arrive at Juneteenth 2025, the question isn't just what we?re celebrating? but how far we?ve come in honoring its meaning
The Root s of Freedom
On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger stepped onto the shores of Galveston, Texas, delivering a message that would change lives: slavery had ended Though President Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation two years earlier, enforcement in Confederate strongholds lagged Juneteenth? short for June Nineteenth? thus marks not just freedom delayed, but freedom delivered.
A Quiet Fire Grow s
For decades, Juneteenth lived outside of textbooks It was kept alive by families and communities who shared oral histories, held picnics, and passed down red punch and red velvet cake as symbols of resilience and joy The holiday, while joyful, was also a solemn remembrance of those who never lived to see liberty
From Margins t o Mainst ream
The modern movement for Juneteenth?s recognition surged in the wake of national reckoning over racial injustice By 2021, the U S Congress declared Juneteenth a federal holiday. What was once regional became national. School curriculums began to include it Corporate America took notice Yet, with visibility came the risk of commodification
? freedom-themed sales without freedom-centered dialogue
The Root s of Freedom
On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger stepped onto the shores of Galveston, Texas, delivering a message that would change lives: slavery had ended Though President Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation two years earlier, enforcement in Confederate strongholds lagged Juneteenth? short for June Nineteenth? thus marks not just freedom delayed, but freedom delivered a message that would change lives: slavery had ended Though President Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation two years earlier, enforcement in Confederate strongholds lagged Juneteenth? short for June Nineteenth? thus marks not just freedom delayed, but freedom delivered
A Quiet Fire Grow s
For decades, Juneteenth lived outside of textbooks. It was kept alive by families and communities who shared oral histories, held picnics, and passed down red punch and red velvet cake as symbols of resilience and joy The holiday, while joyful, was also a solemn remembrance of those who never lived to see liberty.
From Margins t o Mainst ream
The modern movement for Juneteenth?s recognition surged in the wake of national reckoning over racial injustice By 2021, the U S Congress declared Juneteenth a federal holiday What was once regional became national School curriculums began to include it. Corporate America took notice. Yet, with visibility came the risk of commodification? freedom -themed sales without freedom-centered dialogue
Junet eent h 2025: The Present Pulse
Today, Juneteenth is evolving In 2025, it?s not just a day off? it?s a day on A day of action Universities host symposiums on Black history Cities hold parades, concerts, and food festivals, fusing African American culture with calls for justice There are also community clean-ups, voter registration drives, and workshops on economic empowerment
Young people, especially, are reclaiming Juneteenth as a movement? not just a moment TikTok historians, Gen Z entrepreneurs, and student-led initiatives have turned the holiday into a vibrant expression of modern Black identity.
Looking Ahead
As Juneteenth matures, the challenge is to preserve its soul The holiday must remain rooted in education, empowerment, and equity It is not merely about looking back at chains broken, but looking forward to systems transformed
Closing Thought
Juneteenth 2025 reminds us that freedom is not a finish line, but a continuous fight. Its evolution is proof that history breathes, culture adapts, and the spirit of liberation still rises? generation after generation
MELBAMOORE HER TIME. HER STORY.
By: Tony Smith Indie Incognito
She?s a Tony Aw ard-w inning t railblazer, a chart -t opping vocalist , and a living t est am ent t o t he pow er of reinvent ion
Melba Moore didn? t just break through ? she kicked down doors, built her own stage, and kept rising From Broadway brilliance to R&B fire to gospel soul, Moore has navigated the spotlight with grace, grit, and a voice that doesn? t crack under pressure.
In this exclusive Q&A with IndieIncognito, Melba talks legacy, faith, evolution, and what it means to be an artist who still believes in the power of truth.
Melba Moore isn? t just a voice from the past ? she?s a force still shaping the present. With a spirit rooted in faith and a legacy that stretches from Broadway marquees to grassroots movements, her story is far from over Indie Incognito is proud to celebrate an icon who?s never stopped rising ? and never stopped reminding us that soul, truth, and staying power will always be in style.
Melba Moore: A Voice That Won? t Be Silenced
Melba Moore isn? t just a performer ? she?s a movement A Tony Award-winning actress, chart-topping singer, and fierce advocate for Black artistry, Moore?s career has spanned over five decades without losing its fire From her breakout role in Purlieon Broadway to soulful R&B hits like ?Love?s Comin?at Ya,?she?s defied every attempt to be boxed in.
Her voice, rich with power and praise, has graced gospel stages, concert halls, and civil rights marches Yet behind the applause is a woman who?s survived industry shutdowns, betrayal, and reinvention ? and never stopped rising In an era obsessed with image, Moore remains a living lesson in substance
Today, she stands as both legend and light: still recording, still performing, and still using her platform to uplift others Whether mentoring young talent or speaking truth through song, Melba Moore proves that longevity isn? t about staying visible ? it?s about staying valuable.
She doesn? t just carry the legacy of Black excellence ? she builds it And she?s not done yet she?s a force
of resilience A Tony Award-winning actress, chart-topping R&B singer, and gospel powerhouse, Moore has spent over five decades blazing trails where few dared to walk She broke onto Broadway in Hair and made history with Purlie, becoming one of the first Black women to win a Tony Award in a lead role.
Her music career soared in the '70s and '80s with hits like ?This Is It?and ?Love?s Comin?at Ya,?showcasing a voice that could command a disco floor just as powerfully as a Sunday church But Moore?s journey wasn? t without struggle. She faced industry blackballing, financial hardship, and personal betrayal ? and still, she rose
What makes Melba Moore remarkable isn? t just her talent, but her unwavering faith, purpose, and power to evolve From R&B to gospel, from Broadway to the community stage, she?s used her platform to uplift, educate, and inspire
OneOnOneWithM ELBA
interview by Tony Smith, publisher Indie Incognito Magazine
Melba Moore open up w it h Indie
Incognit o about All Things Melba
In this exclusive Q&A with IndieIncognito, Melba talks legacy, faith, evolution, and what it means to be an artist who still believes in the power of truth
1 You?ve reinvented yourself across Broadway, R&B, gospel, and beyond What?s kept you grounded through every transformation?
Melba Moore: God. Full stop. Myfaith hasbeen the anchor, thecompass, and theparachute. When the businessgetsnoisyor cruel, I go quiet with God and get centered That?swhat allowsmeto move, shift, evolve? but stayrooted.
2 You were one of the first Black women to win a Tony Award ? how did that moment shape your voice offstage, as much as on it?
Melba Moore: Winningthat Tonywasbeautiful? but what cameafter taught me everything. Thesilence, the closed doors, thetypecasting That?swhere I found my real voice:offstage, behind the scenes, fightingfor visibilityand value. It made mebold, not bitter.
3. We?re living in a time where artists are expected to be brands. How do you stay authentic in a world that rewards image over substance?
Melba Moore: Authenticityisn? t a strategy? it?sa decision I never wanted to betrendy I wanted to be trueI?d rather beremembered for mytruth than noticed for mystyle. Though I do lovea good stage outfit!
4. Your music has always had spiritual and social depth. How do you balance the sacred and the soulful in your work?
Melba Moore: I don't seethem asseparate. Whether I'm singinggospel or R&B, it'sall spirit to me. Myjob isto lift people up. Sometimesthat's through a praisesong, sometimesthrough a heartbreakballad. Thesourceisalwaysthesame.
5 Lookingback, wasthere a moment you almost walked away? and what pulled you back?
Melba Moore: Oh yes, morethan once. When you feel forgotten or dismissed, it'shard to keep singing But then someoneremindsyou? you matter. Aletter, a fan, a church ladywho says, ?You helped meheal.?That?swhen I remember:I?m still called to do this.
6 You?ve mentored and inspired countless artists What do you tell young performers about the price and purpose of longevity?
Melba Moore: Longevitymeansknowingwho you are beforetheapplause, and rememberingwho you are aft erit fades. It?sa calling, not a career. You have to bepatient, purein your intent, and passionatewhen no one?swatching.
7 What does ?freedom?mean to you now ? as a woman, as an artist, and as a cultural icon?
Melba Moore: Freedom isbeingableto choose your truth and walkin it, without apology. Asa woman and a Blackartist, that wasn? t alwayssafe. Now, I singwhat I want, saywhat I believe, and stand in myfull power. That?sfreedom.
8 If you had to title this current chapter of your life, what would the headline be?
Melba Moore: ?Still Rising?I?velived manylivesin thisonelife? and I?m not done I?m still climbing, still growing, and still givingglorywhereit?sdue. follow Melba Moore on instagram facebook press: Tom Estey
Guardians of t he Fut ure: The Unsung Heroes? Nannies and Yout h Coaches
By Indie Incognit o St aff
In the shadow of traditional parenting, two roles quietly shape the next generation with profound influence: nannies and yout h coaches. These professionals aren't just caregivers or whistle-blowers on the sidelines? they're architects of emotional intelligence, resilience, and character
The Modern-Day Nanny
Today?s nanny is more than a babysitter They are early childhood educators, cultural guides, and emotional anchors in increasingly complex households With families juggling careers, travel, and non-traditional work hours, nannies often become second parents? offering stability, trust, and routine in a world that rarely slows down
Yout h Coaches: Ment ors in Mot ion
Whether on the court, in a music studio, or leading a robotics team, youth coaches are part instructor, part therapist, part life guide In many underserved communities, coaches become critical role models? often filling gaps left by strained school systems or absent figures at home.
Com m on Ground: Em ot ional Labor and Undervalued Expert ise
Both roles demand patience, empathy, and a masterclass in conflict resolution
Yet despite the responsibility they shoulder, nannies and coaches are rarely given the spotlight? or the pay? that reflects their impact. Indie Incognito believes it?s time to elevate these professions in the cultural conversation
Cult ural Im pact & Represent at ion
Representation matters When children see leadership in diverse forms? Black nannies nurturing with cultural nuance, LGBTQ+ coaches guiding with acceptance? they gain more than skills. They gain perspective.
The Call
This piece isn? t just a nod. It?s a call to recognize, resource, and respect the village raising our future Let?s shine a light on those working behind the scenes? because the sidelines and playrooms are where greatness often begins
The Village Voice
Two voices, onemission? raisingresilient kidsin a chaoticworld.
Int erview Subject s:
- Janelle Thom as, Professional Nanny (Brooklyn, NY) ? 12 years of experience, early childhood development certified, bilingual
- Coach Marcus Reed, Youth Sports Coach (Atlanta, GA) ? Former D1 athlete turned community mentor, runs free weekend sports clinics
Indie Incognito: Janelle, how has the role of a nanny changed in the last decade?
Janelle Thom as: Oh, it 's evolved a lot I'm not just keeping kids safe? I'm t eaching phonics, em ot ional lit eracy, and even how t o navigat e social m edia for som e older ones Parent s now w ant co-parent s, not just babysit t ers
Indie Incognito: Coach Marcus, you?re known for saying, ?The court is my classroom ?Can you expand on that?
Coach Marcus Reed: Absolutely I?m not just coaching jum p shot s I?m t eaching discipline, conflict resolut ion, and how t o fail w it h grace For m any of m y kids, t his is t heir only st ruct ured out let . We t alk about life just as m uch as drills
Indie Incognito: What?s one moment that reminded you both, why you do this work?
Janelle: One of ?m y kids? sent m e a video from her college dorm ? she?s t he first in her fam ily t o at t end She said, ?You believed in m e before I believed in m yself ? I cried for a w eek st raight
Marcus: One of m y form er players cam e back as an assist ant coach He t old m e he w as m ent oring now because of m e That ?s legacy right t here.
Indie Incognito: What?s the one thing society needs to understand about your work?
Janelle: We?re not ?t he help ? We?re educat ors, t herapist s, and role m odels. Invest in us, and you?re invest ing in your children?s foundat ion
Marcus: We?re prevent at ive care Support us now , or pay t he price lat er? socially, em ot ionally, econom ically
Indie Incognito: Final thoughts?
Janelle: Respect t he village.
Marcus: And fund it .
THE VILLAGE IN ACTION
Meet theChangemakersBehind theKidsWho Will ChangetheWorld.
Janelle Thom as
Role: Professional Nanny
Locat ion: Brooklyn, NY
Years in t he Field:12
Superpow er: Emotional fluency & bilingual early literacy
Belief: ?I?m not just part of their childhood? I?m part of their becoming.?
Fun Fact:Known as ?Miss J?in three family households across NYC? has attended two of her nanny-kids?graduations as an honorary family member.
Coach Marcus Reed
Role: Youth Sports Coach & Mentor
Locat ion: Atlanta, GA
Years in t he Field:9
Superpow er: Teaching life through sport
Belief:?Leadership starts when no one is watching.?
Fun Fact:Runs a free summer bootcamp called?Hoop, Hope& Hustle?? where practice starts with affirmations and ends with group journaling
Ransom e Explores The Great Migrat ion
Painter and collage artist Ransome crafts colorful collages reflecting his heritage,which can be traced back to sharecroppers of the American South who migrated to Northern cities along the East Coast Based in New York, Ransome is influenced by contemporary culture,jazz and R&Bmusic and Abstract Expressionism? all of which can be seen in his work exploring how the experience of the Great Migration intertwines with his own personal narrative. His abstract pieces,like Altar,ToThe FolksWhoMigrated,not only speak to the struggle and pain of Black figures who were systemically overlooked,but also celebrates the joy and soul of the Black community itself
Ransome,through his art,explores the themes and experiences of the Great Migration, a period of massive population shift where Black Americans left the South for Northern cities between 1916 and 1070. His work often reflects on the lives of Black Americans who,like his family,migrated during this time, incorporating personal stories and historical accounts into his paintings, installations,and other mediums.
Elaboration:
Ransome's artistic exploration of the Great Migration is multifaceted, encompassing both personal and historical narratives.He uses various artistic techniques,including patterns, shapes,colors,and collage,to convey the stories of those who participated in this significant historical event
Ransome's work is a compelling testament to the transformative power of art to explore complex historical narratives and offer a deeper understanding of the human experience.
Ransome was born in North Carolina and moved to a New Jersey suburb as a teenager He graduated from Pratt Institute and was a tenured professor in the School of Visual Performing Arts at Syracuse University before retiring to pursue his dreams of being a studio artist He received his MFA in Studio Arts from Lesley University.
https://www ransomeart com/home
JUNETEENTH 2025 FROM LIBERATION TO LEGACY
ByTonySmith, Indie Incognito
INTRO:
Once whispered in Southern Black communities and celebrated in quiet resilience, Juneteenth has grown into a national symbol of liberation In 2025, its presence is louder, broader? and still evolving
A Quiet Fire That Never Died
On June 19, 1865, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation, Union troops finally delivered the news of freedom to the enslaved people of Galveston, Texas Juneteenth? short for June Nineteenth? was born not only from emancipation, but from endurance and delayed justice.
?Freedom delayed. Freedom declared. Freedom celebrated.?
Despite its roots, Juneteenth lived in the margins for decades, passed down through oral traditions and backyard gatherings, red food, soul music, and memory
From the Margins to the Mainstream
The 2020's saw Juneteenth explode into public consciousness, fueled by the movement for racial equity and recognition In 2021, it became a federal holiday Businesses took notice, schools began to teach it, and headlines included it. But deeper questions emerged: Could America honor Juneteenth without commercializing it?
?Juneteenth went national, but it?sstill personal.?
Juneteenth 2025: Reclaiming the Holiday
In 2025, Juneteenth is a mosaic From New York to Oakland, celebrations include concerts,
storytelling, voter registration drives, and economic forums Youth-led groups hold panels on Black innovation Churches and cultural centers organize mental health workshops, exploring the emotional legacy of enslavement
?It?snot just a celebration? it?sa callingto act.?
Today?s Juneteenth is more than a memory; it?s a movement shaped by the future
What Juneteenth Means Today
- Red Food & Sym bolism
Red represents the blood shed and the strength of the enslaved. Red velvet cake, hibiscus punch, and watermelon are traditional fare - Modern Observances
Panel discussions on systemic racism
Black-owned business expos
Art exhibitions and youth poetry slams
The Road Forward
As Juneteenth continues to evolve, its challenge is also its strength: to educate without erasure, to celebrate without dilution, to remember while mobilizing. For many, Juneteenth is not the end of a story? it?s the drumbeat of a struggle still unfolding
Pull Quot e:
?Juneteenth isn? t just history? it?sprophecy.?
NEWS NOW
Coast s in Crisis: The Uprising and Unease in LA and NY
ByIndieIncognito Staff
From Harlem to Hollywood, America?s cultural capitals are on edge
In New York Cit y, protests have flared in response to a recent police-involved incident in Brooklyn, igniting long-standing frustrations over surveillance, gentrification, and systemic overreach. What began as a peaceful community vigil quickly escalated into a two-night standoff between demonstrators and NYPD, prompting renewed cries of ?No justice, no peace?across boroughs already frayed by economic disparity and housing battles
Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, outrage erupted following LAPD?s aggressive response to student-led protests on a college campus demanding accountability in policing and institutional transparency The flashpoint? videos of officers clashing with students? circulated widely online, reigniting the city?s history of civil unrest and forcing City Hall into damage-control mode
These aren't isolat ed flare-ups? t hey're sym pt om s
Symptomatic of a deeper national fatigue Of promises made but not kept Of a generation less interested in hashtags and more determined to dismantle outdated systems From the East to the West Coast, organizers aren? t just demanding reform? they're rewriting the terms of civic engagement
Underlying all of this is a bipartisan erosion of trust? between communities and institutions, citizens and systems Add inflation, housing unaffordability, and the echo of pandemic inequities, and the temperature is rising fast.
This isn? t just unrest? it?s a reckoning
And while politicians tweet and pundits spin, people are filling the streets with a message too loud to ignore: Change is not optional. It?s overdue.
?The streets are speaking,?said a Brooklyn-based activist ?And this time, they?re not asking nicely ?
?The streets are speaking,?said a Brooklyn-based activist ?And this time, they?re not asking nicely ?
PAYING HOMAGE:
SLY STONE
The Funk Prophet . The Genre Bender. The Revolut ionary Sound That Changed Music Forever.
Hedidn? t just makemusic? hemadestatements, grooves, and revolutions. Thisisour sonicsalute to theman who made theworld danceto themusic... and thinkwhiledoingit.
By, Tony Smith. Indie Incognito
There are musicians who ride the wave
And then there?s Sly Stone? the man who wasthe wave
Long before genre-mashing was cool, Sly and the Family Stone smashed barriers: racial, musical, political The sound?
Explosive. The message?Unapologetically inclusive. Psychedelic funk grooves married to radical peace-and-love energy with a dose of Black empowerment and San Francisco defiance This wasn? t just music? it was a movement in stereo.
Sly wasn? t here for small revolutions From the first pulse of?Dance t o t he Music?to the socially-charged ache of?Everyday People,?he infused funk with fire and gospel with grit
His genius lay not only in crafting electrifying anthems but in seeing the bigger picture: unity Harmony Noise that meant something
The Family Stone wasn? t just a band? it was a manifesto Integrated Gender-balanced Wildly ahead of its time They were what Americashould?velooked like. And Sly?He was the afro futurist minister of that utopia, preaching with a keyboard and a megawatt smile, even when the world was out of tune
Sure, the industry didn? t know how to handle him A pioneer often gets arrows in the back But let?s be clear: without Sly, there?s no Prince. No Out Kast. No D?Angelo. No Kendrick. Every funk beat, every rebel chorus, every soulful fusion track today bears his DNA
We honor Sly Stone not just for the records that blew our minds, but for the future he dared to imagine Funk wasn? t just music It was medicine It still is
So here?s to the sonic architect who made the revolution groove
Still sly. Still stone cold iconic.
DEMOCRACY IN PERIL
By Tony Smith. Indie Incognito
America was never promised perfection, but it was founded on the bold experiment of democracy ? a government of the people, by the people, for the people Yet in 2025, that promise is fraying at the edges
From voter suppression tactics disguised as ?election integrity?to the mainstreaming of political violence and disinformation, we are witnessing a rollback of democratic norms not seen since the Jim Crow era. Gerrymandering, closed primaries, and the erosion of federal voting rights protections have hollowed out fair representation Meanwhile, social media algorithms amplify outrage over facts, replacing dialogue with division
The danger is no longer hypothetical. We?ve seen armed mobs breach the Capitol We've watched local officials ? election workers, school board members, even librarians ? be threatened into silence or resignation Autocratic playbooks, once foreign case studies, now look eerily familiar at home
But democracy doesn? t die in one dramatic moment ? it dies incrementally, with each shrug, each unchecked lie, each law that makes it harder for certain Americans to vote
Let?s not sugarcoat it: Democracy is on life support ? and America?s holding the plug.
What was once a grand experiment in people power now teeters on the edge of authoritarian déjà vu Voting rights are under assault, truth is on a ventilator, and the noise machine is drowning out the signal
We're not watching history repeat ? we're watching it remix in real time, and the beat is brutal This isn? t just a political crisis It?s a cultural reckoning. Book bans are back. Protests are criminalized Gen Z activists are being labeled threats while corporate lobbyists get VIPaccess to write the laws Minority voices are gaslit, silenced, or surveilled The system was never perfect ? but now, it?s being rigged in plain sight.
The scariest part?The apathy Democracy doesn? t need a bullet to die ? it just needs us to stop showing up Stop asking questions Stop voting because "it doesn't matter " That?s the trap
But Indie Incognito knows better We come from resistance. We document the truth, amplify the underground, and call BSwhen the suits spin freedom into fear
This m om ent isn? t just a crisis It ?s a calling Artists, organizers, educators, hustlers, dreamers ? the mic is yours Because democracy doesn? t live in marble halls. It lives in culture. It lives in courage.
And it lives ? if we fight for it
THE CULTURE IS POLITICAL
Every banned book, every hip-hop lyric dissected in a courtroom, every headline erased from textbooks is part of a broader power grab. They?re not afraid of "disorder " They're afraid of imagination And if you?ve been sleeping ? wake the hell up
phot by DJ Paine
THAT'S YOUR OPINION
BY:PauletteJackson
SCORPLadyVenturesTM OpEd
What Does Your Peace Look Like?
In the last few years since the Pandemic, my emotions have been all over the place: confused, scared, anxious, depression and doubt; so many levels I?m sure I am not alone in this and although everyone experiences and deals with their feelings in different ways, all of us have had so many emotions about what was going on
I for one never thought I would ever live through something like that and how the world seemed to stand still, what direction were we headed?That crossed my mind so many times. Oddly enough though, as unsure as I and the rest of the world felt, there were some positive things that still came out of that dark and deadly period and I also realized, more than ever, that I needed to find a new peace in order to sustain me through it all.
I am not going to sit here and tell you all that it was that simple, because it was not. But, I knew that if I didn? t want to completely lose myself in what was going on, I had to find and maintain peace and hold on to the joys I had created for myself before the Pandemic existed.
Since that scary time, other life events have happened, not all good unfortunately, it has been difficult but I am still standing to share part of my story with you all in hopes of inspiring you to find what peace means to you
In today?s world, it is more important than ever to maintain mental and emotional peace of mind, body and spirit Life happens to us all and for me, what has become more and more necessary for my life on earth, is PEACE We have to carve out time and space for ourselves in order to survive parts of life and everything that goes with it
I have discovered that when a person feels that they have lost a sense of themselves and not to feel peace in your home or even your spirit, your motivation changes, your perspective changes over time and the things and statuses we thought were important become so insignificant
Peace for me has become to mean being free to be me; to be creative, artistic an independent of others opinions and thoughts of who they think I should be and what I should be. Peace for me is a long walk with music in my ears, hanging out with friends that share and support my dreams and passions, taking trips to other cities, experiencing different people or just sitting quietly in prayer, just to name a few.
What has become the most liberating for me, is realizing that I am enough! I don? t need to be in a relationship to feel complete. I had to learn to like myself and have the courage to change the things about myself I wasn? t happy with
Taking leaps of faith and doing things, taking on opportunities that I never imagined I would
This is just a few things I have tried my best to maintain in order to keep my peace Now, I will admit, the last couple years have had their own set of additional challenges and changes for which I am fighting my way back from One of the steps I have taken, is getting back to creating; writing again is my step forward on this journey that is taken a different direction than before All I know, is that I am ready to LIVEagain
What Does Your Peace Look Like?Whatever it is, just make sure to maintain and keep it Remember, that even through the storms, it is possible to still find the sun.
*Note* I share stories and insights from my own personal experiences in the hope to inspire and motivate others I have consulted on various topics from writing to radio and will share my experiences on the stage Stay tuned
Paulette Jackson is a regular Indie Incognito columnist with her "That;s Your Opinion" column
She is the founder for SCORP Lady Ventures and known as Ms Music
d r . Gail Jh o n so n ,
Jazz In Pin k
SOUNDOFF
w it h Jo-Lynn Herbert
VOICE OF STRENGTH
Sometime and Somewhere
We stand to Honor those who have shaped this world From years past to now we know as today The only thing that keeps us all alive are the memories that were made in that one moment to last forever
I love it when I can sit anywhere and feel a feeling, I once felt that it brought excitement and sheer amazement, that can? t seem to be forgotten Many of us carry memories we chose to remember, and others well were never meant to be remembered.
I love to listen to music, and I love it when I?m moved by a sound that has the power to clear a path of emotions that were not able to be released or even thought of I love how music has the power to stop a heartbeat Music has the power to define a moment, a mood and an outcome. Voices have been the ultimate path to experiencing a life-changing force of energy that can? t be ignored
Melodies of harmonies, hymns, songs, rhythms, voices carry a reason for reactions that lead one to look around and check where it?s coming from and start feeling the beat Sound comes from everywhere and anywhere. Some sounds are irritating, loud and soft and depending on what you like you will have a reaction, some sounds are pleasant, some are not
Longevity of sound and voice are masterpieces of a collective that continues generation to generation
Singers, songstresses, vocalists, soloist, entertainers, lead and backup singers, rappers come from a long stretch of meaning, expression, emotion, and stories that has resonated into our hearts, mind, lives, experiences, places of worship, graduations, birthday parties, relationships, weddings, marriages, vacations, breakups, protests, activism in our soul for a very long time spanning generation to generation from all over the world.
When we hear a voice, we immediately respond to the message we hear and feel. Voices represent feelings and emotions of strength, intimacy, sadness, empowerment, faith, compassion, determination, despair, style, and enthusiasm that are sweet, confident, bold to our ears that remain on a beat of wisdom and inspiration that could be heard from miles away to be captured in the atmosphere forever and a day
Ms Melba Moore immediately comes to mind to recognize she carries the meaning of Songstress, Legend and Artist who resonated into our consciousness. Ms. Melba Moore has proven the test of time, stands solid and remains a star to sing in her strength that has been an anchor to aspire It?s a profound pleasure to Honor to admire Ms Melba Moore for such a time since I can remember how a voice could transform the silence within
Jo-Lynn Herbert is a Published Author, Writer, and a Licensed Social Worker (LMSW) She is a regular Indie Incognito columnist.
Jo-lynn-expressions.com
TRAVEL THAILAND TRAVEL
A m osaic of cult ure, colors, and nat ure in Thailand.
Thailand is one of those countries that you must visit with a light backpack and full of eagerness to explore This country captivates everyone who gets lost in its bustling streets and also those who prefer the silence of cities hidden among mountains Because during your trip to Thailand you won't even have time to check the clock
?If to eat is said Kin Kao and literally means eating rice? can you guess what their favorite dish is??
Because traveling to Thailand is discovering that its temples will take you into the heart of its culture, it's strolling through its floating markets and forgetting the world by diving into its idyllic beaches But, above all, it's realizing that there are so many things to see that the best way is to accompany them with a good pad thai. Can you think of a better excuse to travel to the Land of Smiles?
BUSINESS
Junet eent h 2025: The Freedom We?re St ill Fight ing For
ByIndieIncognito Staff.
Capit alism and Chains: Ret hinking Business on Junet eent h
Juneteenth isn't just a history lesson? it's a mirror. One that reflects how far we've come, and how much further we have to go On June 19th, 1865, freedom came late? and it came tied to systems built on Black labor, Black innovation, and Black erasure In 2025, those same systems still expect gratitude instead of equity
Today, while corporations post hashtags and offer discounts, Black entrepreneurs face real barriers: unequal access to capital, discriminatory lending, exploitative partnerships, and underrepresentation in executive suites. The racial wealth gap isn't a side issue? it's the battlefield
Econom ic Liberat ion Is Civil Right s Work
The 2025 Juneteenth business agenda isn't about celebration? it?s about activation
- Funding Black Fut ures: According to the Federal Reserve, only 1%of VC funds go to Black founders. Juneteenth should spark commitments? not just campaigns? to invest in marginalized visionaries
- Reparat ive Business Models: From profit-sharing with underserved communities to supporting cooperatives and community land trusts, businesses must rethink profit through a justice-first lens
- Pay Equit y Audit s: If your company marks Juneteenth as a holiday but can? t prove fair wages across race and gender lines, it?s not honoring freedom? it?s painting over oppression
The Real "Buy Black" Movem ent
Juneteenth isn? t just a time to ?support Black businesses?for a day It?s a time to rest ruct ure your supply chains, reassess your vendors, and diversify your boardrooms. If Black businesses are always last in line for contracts, clients, and credit, then don? t be surprised when ?economic freedom?stays theoretical
Corporat e Allyship or Corporat e Alibi?
It?s 2025 Empty statements don? t cut it Either your company is closing the gap or it's widening it True corporate allyship is measured in capital, contracts, and culture? not in slogans. Juneteenth reminds us: if you?re not actively part of the solution, you?re still part of the system
This Junet eent h, Ask Yourself:
- Who holds the wealth in your company?
- Who gets the power to decide?
- Who?s building freedom? and who?s selling it?
Juneteenth is not just a pause to remember the past It's a provocation to build a future where freedom means ow nership,access, and econom ic dignit y for all.
Indie Incognit o? where culture meets capitalism, and we refuse to separate freedom from finance
WELLNESS
Junet eent h 2025: Rest , Heal, Resist
WellnessIsFreedom
ByIndieIncognito Staff
The Revolut ion Is Also Rest
Juneteenth isn? t just about emancipation from physical chains? it?s about liberation from systems that still weigh heavy on Black bodies, minds, and spirits. As we honor this historic day in 2025, we?re reclaiming wellness as an act of resistance
Because in a world that profits from Black exhaustion, choosing to rest is revolutionary
Wellness as Reparat ions
Black communities have long been expected to survive, not thrive The generational trauma of slavery, segregation, and systemic racism leaves its mark on our health? from higher maternal mortality to chronic stress and limited access to quality care.
This Juneteenth, we?re flipping the narrative Wellness is not a luxury? it?s reparative justice. It?s creating space to breathe, to heal, to be Pract ices for Liberat ion
This year, Juneteenth wellness events across the country are offering:
- Ancest ral Healing Circles: Where storytelling becomes medicine, and shared memory becomes a path forward
- Free Therapy Sessions: Because mental health must be accessible, not aspirational.
- Com m unit y Yoga and Movem ent : Reconnecting with the body that capitalism tries to grind down
- Financial Wellness Workshops: Because economic anxiety is health-related too.
Joy Is Not Opt ional? It ?s Oxygen
To be well is to be whole And to celebrate Juneteenth through joy? Black joy? is not superficial, it?s strategic. Music, dance, family cookouts, moments of reflection? these aren? t distractions They?re declarations of presence, of life, of legacy
The New Em ancipat ion: Choosing Yourself
Wellness this Juneteenth means saying:
- Not o burnout disguised as ?grind culture ?
- No to over giving with nothing in return
- Yesto therapy, boundaries, sleep, silence, softness.
- Yesto building a life that doesn? t just look free, but feelsfree
Junet eent h 2025 rem inds us: Freedom isn't just polit ical? it 's personal Your healing is holy Your rest is radical And your joy?Unapologetically essential
From IndieIncognito? because wellnessisn't a trend It'sa tool for liberation
ARTS
Juneteenth, Black Royalty Painting by Alicia Jones | Saatchi Art Ireland
Hip Hop Corner
Moses Sun. 21 Chambers Illuminated: Carnival Of Black Joy, 2020
FOOD
Cheeseburger Dreams: Caseville?s Juiciest Celebration Returns in 2025
By Indie Incognito Staff
For ten sun-soaked days in August, the sleepy shoreline town of Caseville, Michigan trades its quiet charm for cheeseburgers, leis, and a tropical state of mind Back for its 26th year, the Cheeseburger in Caseville Fest ival runs August 8?17, 2025, and it?s shaping up to be the cheesiest yet.
What started as a Jimmy Buffett-inspired weekend has evolved into a full-blown Parrothead paradise, complete with a ?Parade of Tropical Fools,?beach-themed costume contests, live island music, and? you guessed it? burgers on every corner From classic American stacks to wild, bacon-laced Frankenburgers, the festival is a tribute to indulgence, community, and not taking life too seriously
But it?s not just a burger binge Families come for sandcastle competitions, kayak rides, and the 5K ?Bun Run ?Nights are for dancing barefoot on Main Street, cocktail in hand, with steel drums and cover bands setting the island tone
Locals call it their Mardi Gras First-timers call it unforgettable We just call it one of sum m er ?s m ost unapologet ically joyful fest ivals
Island shirt s required Diet s discouraged Bring napkins
What Makes It Click
- Trop?rock overload: Daily live music from Buffett tribute acts and local favorites sets a mellow, beach?y mood.
- Parade of Tropical Fools: A local favorite where costumed fans, floats, and beach balls turn Main Street into a sunshine?soaked pageant Foodie heaven: Beyond endless cheeseburgers, grab sides, sample contest?worthy bites, or challenge yourself in the infamous cheeseburger?eating contest the Cheeseburger 5Kon August 9? run or walk through lakeside scenery, then stick around for kids?fun runs, sandcastle building, sidewalk chalk, plus kayak and paddleboard sessions Legacy and Local Spirit Founded in 1999, the festival was born from a small?town love of cheeseburgers and sunshine It?s now an institution: local business?boosting, casual, and community?driven. Caseville embraces the festival, even offering overflow camping near downtown during the celebration
- Insider Tip
Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and bring your island attitude Plan early? overflow RVand camper spots vanish fast And don? t miss that early?morning cheeseburger run: there?s no better way to earn your festival stripes
HIP HOP CORNER
HIPHOPCORNER| Juneteenth 2025: Still Rappin?for theRevolution
By Indie Incognito Staff
Before the holiday got a hashtag and corporate ?allyship?caught a logo, Hip Hop had already declared Juneteenth a state of mind.
Since its earliest days, Hip Hop has been the heartbeat of Black liberation? loud, unfiltered, and deeply rooted As the nation marks Junet eent h 2025, the genre continues its legacy as griot, activist, and amplifier of truth. From breakbeats to block parties, it?s still speaking for the silenced, educating the distracted, and shaking the foundations of the status quo
Rhym es Over Red Tape
160 years after the last enslaved people in Texas were informed of their freedom, the struggle has shape-shifted? but not disappeared Housing inequality, police brutality, wage gaps, school-to-prison pipelines? Hip Hop calls them out in every hook, verse, and sample.
This year?s wave of Juneteenth-centered tracks hit harder than ever Independent artists are dropping message-first mixtapes, while mainstream acts are partnering with community organizers to turn concerts into consciousness campaigns Houston?sLady Flam ez spits protest poetry over chopped & screwed beats; in Chicago,Marcus 19XX fuses gospel hooks with hard truths about reparations and resilience.
Junet eent h Cyphers: Where Flow Meet s Freedom
In community centers, rec rooms, and barbershops across America, Junet eent h Rap Cyphers are reclaiming the mic These aren? t just freestyle battles? they?re lyrical masterclasses in history, policy, and pain. Themes like ?40 Acres and a Lie?and ?Chains Ain? t Gone, They Changed?dominate the rounds. Winners don? t just get props? they get booked for panels, protests, and youth outreach tours
Juneteenth 2025 Playlist: The Beats Behind the Banner
1 Kendrick Lam ar ? ?Alright ?
2 Rapsody ? ?Afeni?
3 Nas ? ?If I Ruled t he World?
4 Nonam e ? ?Song 33?
5 Public Enem y ? ?Fight t he Pow er ?
6. J. Cole ? ?Bracket s?
7. Com m on ft . Lauryn Hill ? ?Ret rospect for Life?
8. Dead Prez ? ?Police St at e?
9. Lit t le Sim z ? ?Int rovert ?
10 Jahlani Trut h ? ?Em ancipat ion Ain? t Free?(Indie spotlight)
Stream this list where soul meets syntax and truth rides the tempo.
For Rakim thelegend,Juneteenth representsreflection,renewed consciousness,and celebratingprogressin thefight for racial justice.
In a 2021 int erview , he explained what Juneteenth means to him: ?It?s a very important event, and something to pay attention to and celebrate? Especially after all we?ve been through, with the pandemic, the protests, the social injustices ? it?s time to be really conscious about what?s going on around us, and to better ourselves.?
PUBLISHING
Can't Hurt Me: Mast er Your Mind and Defy
t he Odds. Click for your copy
POLITICS
ByIndie Incognito Staff
DEI backlash shaping celebrations It's the first Junet eent h under Trum p?s second adm inist rat ion, which recently issued an executive order banningDEI programsin federal agencies This has led to cautious tone and pullback in corporate and government support Corporations and arts funders are scaling back sponsorship. For instance, Denver?s two-day Juneteenth Music Festival was reduced to one day as more than a dozen sponsors pulled out, while the National Endowment for the Arts rescinded grants? including $25K previously awarded in San Diego .Federal closure & service disruption
As a federal holiday on Thursday, June 19, 2025, all federal offices (DMV, USPS) and major banks (including Chase, Wells Fargo, Bank of America, Citibank) will close, and stock markets will pause trading FedEx and UPSwill continue operations, but users should plan for one-day disruptions in mail and financial services.
Local events under strain Some municipalities havecanceled or t rim m ed event sdue to funding issues and political pressure. Notable cuts include Scottsdale, AZ, Colorado Springs, Bend, OR, and Indianapolis Yet many communities are doubling down Cities like Houst on, Det roit , Midland (TX), New port New s (VA), and Alt on (IL) are hosting vibrant events? parades, block parties, cultural festivals? highlighting resilience amid shrinking support momentum
States continue formalizing Juneteenth recognition:Alabam a legislature passed a bill on May?7, 2025, making it an official paid holiday after earlier executive recognition As of 2024,27 st at es plus D.C.offer paid state employee leave for Juneteenth, even while some rollback efforts are underway in other regions
Sym bolic t errain: Juneteenth has evolved into a tug-of-war between progressive celebration of Black history and conservative backlash against DEI, with real battles over funding, messaging, and recognition happening on local stages
Grassroot s resilience: Despite institutional cutbacks, many organizers are pivoting to community and philanthropic support to keep the memory alive.
Bot t om line: Juneteenth politics in 2025 reflect broader national polarization? between gestures toward racial justice and active resistance to institutional support Under Trump?s DEI ban, federal and corporate retreat is met with local-level obstinance Grassroots organizers at junctures of policy and community are taking up the slack
MUSIC DeeA nn
From SultryNotesto Soulful Truths:TheRiseof DeeAnn DiMeo
In a world of auto-tuned anthems and fast fame, singer DeeAnn DiMeo is a refreshing reminder that real talent never goes out of style. With a voice that dips into jazz, flirts with soul, and lands with bluesy conviction, DeeAnn doesn? t just sing? she testifies Whether she?s owning the stage with a classic standard or captivating a crowd with her originals, this Buffalo-born powerhouse delivers every lyric like she?s lived it And in many ways, she has Now gaining national attention, DeeAnn is rewriting the rules for grown, gifted women in music? and she?s doing it on her own terms.
One on One with
by: Tony Smith Indie Incognito
Q. You've developed a signature sound that blends soul, jazz, and a touch of blues How did your musical identity come together and was it something organic, or did you always know the sound you were going for?
A I loved singing in many genres - rock, pop, country, classical, etc? After I had my children I realized how much I loved jazz, soul, R&B, and, blues It gives you the freedom to stretch yourself vocally, to improvise and to sing outside the box. Whatever you are feeling, you can project it emotionally, melodically and spiritually I also love scatting whenever I am inspired in a song.
Q What was the moment you knew music was more than just a passion? it was your purpose and was there a turning point, or did it build over time?
A. I always knew music had to be in my life. It?s a part of my soul I think it was in high school when I performed my first solo at the Swing Choir concert, and heard my voice amplified throughout the auditorium speakers
I watched the audience?s response and it was such a gratifying experience That was probably my turning point of knowing, this is what I need to do the rest of my life I received the award for ?Most Talented,?in my senior year. That was fun too!
Q Your live performances are known for being incredibly heartfelt. How do you connect with your audience when you're on stage and is there a particular mindset or emotion you tap into?
A I?ve learned that you need to get inside the song if you want to connect with your audience They can tell when you?re not being real. I tap into my own emotions but I also feel their energy and may spontaneously change my set list to work with the crowd
I love interacting with the audience; we feel each other?s energy and it?s a blessing when that happens
Q Can you walk us through your creative process when writing a song?Do you start with lyrics, a melody, or something else entirely?
A. I hear ideas, melodically and/or lyrically any time, or anywhere. I can be sleeping, driving a car, having a conversation with a friend, etc I immediately record what I hear on my voice memo Sometimes I sit at the piano and hear a melody in the chords I?m playing I write lyrics from my own life experiences or others. I share this with my producer and he creates the arrangements around my ideas
Q Who are some of your biggest musical influences, past or present?And are there any unexpected artists who shaped your sound?
A My father was my first influence He was a jazz singer and he had the most beautiful tone, spacing, and phrasing with his vocals Nataile Cole, Barbra Streisand, Sarah Vaughn, Billie Holiday, Ella, and Frank Sinatra were some of the vocalists I heard playing in my house while growing up I love Anita Baker, Gladys Night, Aretha Franklin, Roberta Flack, Diana Krall, Marvin Gaye? The list can go on and on.
Q You?re a strong voice for women in music What challenges have you faced as a female artist, and how have you overcome them?
A I have read how female musicians could be ?difficult?to work with. Sometimes, difficult could mean that she had an opinion and wanted to share it I think it may be easier for women to be heard today than it was many years ago Respect and boundaries must be set for anyone we work or communicate with in music or inany field of work
Q. Tell us about a song that means the most to you personally? and why Whether it's your own or someone elses', what song hits your soul?
A ?You are my Sunshine,?a song I sang to my late son William every night when he was a child, hits my soul I can? t sing or hear it without tears I recorded it a capella and it is on my third album, ?It?s My Time.?My producer, RiShon Odel, created a beautiful arrangement around my vocal
Q. The industry can be tough. What keeps you grounded and motivated when things get overwhelming?
A I pray, and give it all up to God Then I listen for his guidance. I exercise and meditate, and a glass of wine always helps too! This business can be difficult so you need to believe in yourself
Q How do you define success as an artist today?
A Is it about chart numbers, critical acclaim, or something more personal?I would love to hit number 1 on the charts, tour the world with my music, as well as receive many But true success is about enjoying the journey, not so much the destination, and making a difference in the world, while helping others along the way
Q What can fans expect next from DeeAnn?
A I?m working with Urban Influencer and Kayden Gordon in radio promotion with my latest single, ?Simply Beautiful?which is currently receiving airplay worldwide I am also excited to release my second single, ?Kiss of Life?on June 12 th of this year My entire album, produced by Ted Perlman, will be released in the later part of the summer I am incredibly grateful to be working with my PR, Tom Estey, who has opened several doors for me to further my career. My next project is to take my show on the road and I?m super excited to share more of that with you soon
Follow DeeAnn on the following links: https://deeannmusic com/
https://open spotify com/artist/3TQejr5SYcg EAec0DJDaEb?si=Ih7LZNpxRc6 V54G2AIZZA
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/deeann /1122534487
https://www.facebook.com/DeeAnnMusic
https://www instagram com/deeann dimeosings/
https://www linkedin com/in/deeanndimeo-1075b8150/
https://x com/DeeAnnSings
MUSIC
KEITH MITCHELL
Born in Indianapolis, Indiana, Keith Mitchell?s
musical roots run soul-deep At just seven years old, his journey began singing alongside his siblings in The Stars of Zion, where the foundation of his powerful vocals was laid in the church. By twelve, he was already leading and directing songs, developing his signature ear for harmony
Though business was his major at Indiana University, music was his calling Through the prestigious IU Soul Review, Keith honed his craft, mastering the fundamentals of R&B performance It was here that destiny intervened, leading to the formation of the legendary R&B group After 7 with brother Melvin and Kevon Edmonds The group went to achieve remarkable success, earning gold and platinum records while creating timeless hits that defined an era. Today, Keith Mitchell stands at the intersection of his past and future, creating music that combines contemporary beats with profound spiritual messages His artistry, shaped by decades of performance and a lifetime of faith, delivers something uniquely powerful ? a sound that honors both his R&B legacy and his divine calling.
"I cando all thingsthroughChrist which strengthenme."
Philippians4:13 King JamesVersion
QTonySmithof IndieIncognitoQ&AwithKeithMitchell
Q Keith, can you tell us about your young days, growing up where you did?
A Certainly Well I officially received Christ at the age of seven at Zion Tabernacle Pentecostal Church in my hometown of Indianapolis, Indiana After being baptized in the Name of Jesus, I spoke in tongues for the first time, marking a pivotal moment in my spiritual journey.
Even before that day, my connection with the Holy Spirit was evident My mother often recalled a remarkable moment when I was just six weeks old? standing by my crib late one night, she heard me clearly repeat, in perfectly formed English, ?I?m walking in the light ?
Growing up in the church, I performed regularly alongside my brother and two sisters as The Stars of Zion, ministering through music before the congregation By the age of 13, I was appointed director of the young adult children's choir, a role that deepened my passion for worship and leadership in ministry
Q Who was your biggest supporter as a kid?
A Primarily, it was my mom My sisters, who were also cheerleaders, loved on me graciously. I was definitely spoiled? but not rotten. I received so much love and attention from them.
Q Who was your inspiration to go after your career in music?
A My musical inspiration is drawn from legends such as James Brown, Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, The Supremes, James Cleveland, Mahalia Jackson, and Edwin Hawkins
Q Keith, you?ve transitioned from R&B stardom with After 7 to launching your solo gospel career What inspired this shift?
A Ultimately, I felt that due to internal challenges and a lack of alignment with the environment, I was unable to fully contribute my strengths I also didn? t feel that my efforts were genuinely valued, which made it difficult to stay committed. I believe in giving 100%to what I do, and when that?s no longer possible, it?s important to seek an environment where I can thrive and feel appreciated
Q. Your debut gospel single, ?He?s Alive,?is deeply personal. What does it represent to you?
A It represents a fundamental understanding: the belief in God and the Spirit of God? the same Spirit that was in Jesus? is also within us It serves as a reminder, an echo of the truth that Jesus was born, died on the cross for our sins, and through His Spirit, we are connected to God
As a child, the concept of Jesus rising from the dead was difficult to fully grasp But with time, as I grew older and my faith matured, I came to understand that the Spirit of Christ? the Holy Spirit? is the living manifestation of the resurrection He is what lives on in us today as Believers.
&
Q How did your experience with After 7 influence your approach to gospel music?
A. My experience with After 7 has been over 30 years interpreting and delivering lyrics in a way that make certain emotions believable and relatable
The group honed the ability to connect with listeners through the depth of feeling embedded in those songs
As with After 7 I am utilizing the same tools, efforts and delivery while singing for Christ, but it is on a much higher level with deeper conviction and spiritual maturity
Q You?ve mentioned that your songwriting is inspired by scripture and sermons Can you elaborate?
&A. When I go to church I write notes from scripture and the minister Over a period of time, I accumulate topics that become songs My concept is that if I can write songs from the spiritual concept of God on top of melodies, the devil can't penetrate it because it comes straight from the word of God
Q Your upcoming album, Food for Your Life, suggests a nourishing experience What can listeners expect?
A. Prepare to be led through a soul-stirring experience of lyrical and musical accompaniment In every trial and tribulation, He is your guide? faithful and unwavering Through every storm, you will overcome, lifted by praise and worship
Celebrate His Spirit, His Son, and Him? the Father? as He walks beside you, lighting your path with love and grace
Q. Reflecting on your journey, what advice would you give to artists navigating between secular and spiritual music?
A. Music today is deeply intertwined with social media, which has become a powerful tool for artists to explore and share their creativity
Through trial and error, musicians learn how to navigate the promotional aspects of their work, treating social media as a kind of modern-day Bible for success in the industry.
Understand this: be passionate, yes? but also be humble Be persistent, but also patient Be willing to pivot Don? t be so stubborn that you miss what God is trying to show you.
ENTERTAINMENT
Review: Keith Mitchell releases sultry gospel solo single ?He?s Alive?
By Markos Papadatos, May 19, 2025
R&B and gospel singer Keith Mitchell released his new gospel solo single ?He?s Alive ?
He is known for his musical work with the R&B group After 7
Mitchell allows his rich, rumbling vocals to shine on ?He?s Alive,?which is soulful and his controlled, harking voice is smooth as silk
The tune is inspirational, and it will certainly resonate with his fans and listeners; moreover, it is anthemic and it ought to be enjoyed for its beauty and simplicity
On his new single ?He?s Alive,?Mitchell remarked, ?With After 7, we did a very prolific job illustrating the power of love between men and women and how it affects people in romantic relationships ?
?With After 7, we did a very prolific job illustrating the power of love between men and women and how it affects people in romantic relationships ?
Mitchell continued, ?From my many years of faithfully serving the Lord, I have found that nurturing and developing a relationship with Jesus and the Word of God is far above and beyond the experience of loving a person ?
?Learning to love God as I have and having the opportunity to record ?He?s Alive?and the other songs on the album have been powerful, life-giving experiences,?he noted
?I?m grateful for the success I achieved with the group,but the opportunity to write and record this project has given me a sense of creative and spiritual freedom I never felt before,?he acknowledged.
?He?s Alive?by Keith Mitchell is available on Apple Music and Spotify The song is a keeper, and definitely worth checking out Hopefully,this is a harbinger for more quality solo music to come from him in the future.
To learn more about R&B and gospel artist Keith Mitchell,visit his official homepage,and follow him on Instagram and Facebook
media contact: Tom Estey @ tomestpr@yahoo com
KeithMitchell. PhotoCredit:Lili Englehardt
DR DAVE The Sound of Soul in Scrubs
Dr Dave: Funk, Soul & House Calls
Dr. Dave: ByIndieIncognito Staff
He?s not your average front man ? he?s a vibe dealer with a stethoscope in one hand and a mic in the other Dr Dave leads The House Call Band like a man on a mission: to heal the culture with groove, grit, and unapologetic soul Blurring the line between stage and sanctuary, his sound hits like therapy set to a bassline. Raw. Real. Rhythmic. In a world full of noise, Dr. Dave brings the medicine.
He doesn? t just playmusic He prescribesit Dr Dave, the heartbeat behind The House Call Band, is the kind of artist who blurs the lines between healer and hit maker ? and he likes it that way
Out of that duality, The House Call Band was born ? a sonic prescription for the soul Their music is an unapologetic blend of jazz, funk, gospel, and spoken word that doesn? t just entertain ? it heals You can feel it in every performance No pretense No filler Just grooves that cut through the noise and lyrics that reach the broken parts we often don? t talk about
?Wedon? t playto impress. Weplayto connect. That?sthe wholepoint of a house call.?
Before he ever stepped onto a stage, Dr Dave was already saving lives But when the lab coat comes off and the lights go up, he transforms into a front man who knows exactly what the crowd needs ? rhythm, release, and realness. ?Music?s always been medicine,?he says ?I just decided to stop choosing between the two ?
Years after his first extended run of radio hits and success on the contemporary jazz charts, SoCal based composer/guitarist Dr Dave mounted a massive comeback in 2018, forming The House call Band and stirring upexcitement among longtime fans (while creating thousands of new ones) with the 2018 release ofMidnight Daydream The funky,power house, horn-drenched album spawned four hit singles, starting with the sultry, infectiously seductive ?Sexy Cindy??one of Dr. Dave?s biggest hits ever, ranking#1 for Smooth Jazz Guitar songs in the U.S. on Radio Guitar One?s Top 20 The song was named forCindy Sanchez Medina, Miss Santander,Colombia 2018, who appeared in the much-viewed YouTube video
The House Call Band isn? t background noise It?s an experience Think jazz with bite Soul with something to say follow ing purpose And t rust ? t he people are list ening
IndieIncognito Q&A with Dr. Dave
by: Tony Smith
Q What?s the story behind the name ?Dr Dave? and how did The House Call Band come together?
A Dr Dave is a nicknam e t hat w as given t o m e w hen I w as a club m usician. During a band rehearsal, I did som e scat hing alom g w it h t he not es of m y guit ar ( like George Benson does) The band m em bers w ere surprised as t hey said : " w e didn't know you could do t hat ! You're t he doct or of t he guit ar ! DR DAVE " !T.
And t he nicknam e st uck
In addit ion t o t hat , years lat er i com plet ed a Doct or of Clinical Psychology degree
Since Many of t he m usicians couldn't rem em ber m y last nam e , t hey just referred t o m e as Dr Dave. And , Kelly Cole , t he m usic direct or of Radio KIFM Sm oot h Jazz radio st at ion, t old m e t hat w hen m y 1st album w as released she w as asking people if t hey had heard " Dave Hat herill's new album She said t hat every responded w it h : " w ho's Dave Hat herill " . When she replied "DR DAVE" t hen everyone responded oh yah ! Of course w know DR DAVE
KELLY TOLD ME THAT I SHOULD USE DR DAVE; I TOOK HER ADVICE
Per m y backup bands request for a nam e , a radio DJ nam ed J Harris cam e up w it h t he idea of a nam e t hat is a playoff of " DR" So he t hought of t he HOUSE CALL BAND I decided t o m ake t he t w o separat e nam es as one w ord
" House Call " t o specifically ident ify m y band So I regist ered t he nam e w it h t he library of Congress along w it h Dr Dave And now I have legal ow nership of DR DAVE & THE HOUSE CALL BAND. So nobody else can use it legally in t he field of m usic in t he usa .
Q What was your most memorable performance?
A. My m ost m em orable perform ances w as in a jazz fest ival in Brazil The st age w as surrounded by jungle and everyone could act ually hear t he sounds of t he w ild anim als The people t hat at t ended t he fest ival w ere ext rem ely passionat e & appreciat ive of our m usic The energy w as am azing !
Q Can you describe your music?
A. My m usic , and all m usic , had a healing qualit y as m usic has posit ive effect s on people em ot ionally Also, There's clinical evidence t hat m usic st im ulat es t he product ion of endorphins ( a nat ural ant i depressant in our brains ) t hat elevat es a persons m ood
Q What was one of your favorite tunes you prduced?
Sexy Cindy It 's a fun song
( see m usic video on YouTube : Dr Dave & t he House Call Band , sexy Cindy ) as it has a vocal chorus t hat people can sing along w it h
Q What is your take on connecting with your audience?
A. I m ake a point t o connect w it h each different audience in m y opinion greet ing t o t he people in at t endance by t alking about how m uch I love t heir cit y and w hy w it h specific com plim ent s about t heir cit y That w ay people feel a sense t hat I have connect ed w it h t hem personally
Q What can your crowd for you and the band?
A People can expect t o hear qualit y m usicianship and excit ing im provisat ion from each m usician.
Q. Which song in your repertoire always lights up the room, and what?s the story behind it?
A Reserved for Abbie w as w rit t en for a w om an i m eet w hile on t our in one of t he m any cit ies i perform ed in
We hit it off right aw ay So, aft er I ret urned hom e , I t hought t hat t he best w ay t o invit e her t o visit m e in California w as by w rit ing a song about her The songs feat ures t he legendary Sax player: " RONNIE LAWS "
Q What's next for Dr Dave?
A. Right now m y focus is on prom ot ion of m y new release " RESERVED FOR ABBIE "
And t his year I plan t o ret urn t ho t he recording st udio t o finish t he ent ire album
The Healing Groove
From local fundraisers to full-on music festivals, The House Call Band brings the same energy: immersive, intentional, and impossible to ignore And at the center of it all is Dr. Dave ? not performing for ego, but for impact.
Their signature track ?Soul RX?is a crowd favorite ? equal parts celebration and sermon With lyrics that touch on resilience, community, and liberation, it's more than a song It?s a mission statement
Best Regards, Dr. Dave & The HouseCall band ht t p:/ / drdavehousecallband.com
Com ing in August 2025 MAIJA DIGORGIO
Com ing in July. Jam es Thom pson
